Spring Strawberry Spinach Salad

Ingredients

• Baby spinach: Buy it pre-washed for ease, and always pat dry gently so the dressing sticks just right.
• Fresh strawberries: Hull and slice only before serving&they taste best when freshly cut.
• Goat cheese: Crumble by hand for uneven bits that melt into the salad, giving every bite a unique creaminess.
• Candied pecans: Chop roughly so some pieces stay chunky&they add crunch and sweetness.
• Red onion: Slice thin and soak briefly in cold water if you want to soften the sharpness.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Choose flavorful oil&it makes the vinaigrette silky and aromatic.
• Balsamic vinegar: Go for the syrupy kind if you can, for richer tang.
• Honey: A little bit balances the vinegar, but you can use maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Dijon mustard: It emulsifies the dressing, giving it body and a gentle kick.
• Salt and black pepper: Grind right before mixing for maximum flavor.

Instructions

Mix the greens:

Grab your biggest salad bowl and tumble in the spinach, strawberries, onions, and pecans. Let the colors mingle for a moment&the mix should look lively and inviting.

Emulsify the vinaigrette:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Watch as the dressing turns glossy and thick, a sign it's ready to drizzle.

Toss and dress:

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently lift and turn everything with tongs. Aim for enough movement that every leaf gets a touch of the dressing without wilting the spinach.

Crumble the cheese:

Just before serving, scatter goat cheese over the top so it stays cool and creamy. Serve immediately for peak texture and flavor.

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Recipe FAQ

→ Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?

Yes, you can use feta or plant-based cheese as an alternative to goat cheese for similar creaminess.

→ How do I make this dish vegan?

Omit goat cheese or use a dairy-free substitute, and replace honey in the vinaigrette with maple syrup.

→ What nuts can I use besides pecans?

Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives; you can even use them candied for extra crunch.

→ How can I add protein?

Add grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or tofu to make the dish more filling and balanced.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free. Always check product labels to ensure no allergens are present.

→ What pairs well with this salad?

Try serving with chilled rosé or Sauvignon Blanc for a bright, refreshing meal experience.